Landscape Architecture

* **See** **[VIDEO & PHOTOS](https://photos.app.goo.gl/o476bvQ6ZC8CGhG57)** of our previous events * **Join** our **[WHATSAPP](https://chat.whatsapp.com/Ks9sGHsw16TIaJmDUQqoSi)**[ ](https://chat.whatsapp.com/Ks9sGHsw16TIaJmDUQqoSi)with **zero-spam** (we post **extra events** there! If you cannot join msg Christos 0768175380) * **Join** our **[INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/wearetheconnectionspace/)** (find your **own photos** **after the event**, we post **last-minute info** & **extra events**) * **NEW!** We received the official **"Super Host" award** from meetup.com! * **100% FREE event!** * **🙏 YOU** for creating our fun community in the last **4 years with 12.000+ attendees in 90+ events!** * "**Connection Space**" meetup group is only associated with "**[Career Direction Space](http://meetup.com/career-direction-space/)**" group and **no** **other** **meetup group** * Join the **event hosting team**! (msg Christos on 0768175380) . **Summary:** . **❤️ WELCOME HOME** @ **Connection Space❤️** . We truly believe that **fun meaningful offline connections to new & existing friends** makes us truly **happy and healthy**! Our community meets **every 2 fridays non-stop** in a truly **homey,** caring and **welcoming** "come as you are" environment ! . At **EVERY event** we **connect** in the **main area** with: fun social **games**, mindful connection **games**, **new-comer area** (with ice-breakers), German-speaking area, or simply join the amazing vibe and talk to anyone! *(we booked 100% of the location so its **safe to talk to everyone!)*** . **In ADDITION** **to the above** activities, **today's** **EXTRA** activities are located in **separate** **private rooms** and are: * **20:00 - 20:30 Speed-friending** (guaranteed process to meet spark new fun discussions and meet new people - with moderator) * **20:40 - 21:10** **New** **Surprise Connection Activity** (with moderator - in separate room) **.** **Bravo** **to you** for the courage to go out to meet new people! We know **everyone is unique** \- thats why we got a big new\-comer area\, 4 co\-hosts welcoming and connecting you\, and many activities for you to **choose** from to find what **suits you**! . *These events are **inspired** by the Swiss Stammtisch and Greek village coffeeshops ("[Καφενείο](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kafenio)"), once vibrant [community hubs](https://www.google.com/search?sca_esv=569660528&sxsrf=AM9HkKlXnclaLfgcockKtdr9qHdmD5jaGw:1696060562834&q=greek+%5D(https://www.google.com/search?sca_esv=569660528&sxsrf=AM9HkKlXnclaLfgcockKtdr9qHdmD5jaGw:1696060562834&q=greek+)%CE%BA%CE%B1%CF%86%CE%B5%CE%BD%CE%B5%CE%B9%CE%BF&source=lnms&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwi52fX67dGBAxXnlf0HHZNiBHUQ0pQJegQICRAB&biw=1460&bih=913&dpr=2&udm=2) where people gathered daily. I, Christos, fondly remember visiting these with my grandfather and now revive this fading tradition with a modern twist. Hope you enjoy it ❤️* . . * We have received the **"Super Organizer" meetup award** \- see badge **[here](https://www.meetup.com/members/69886292/)** since we brought the highest value to the Meetup network over the past months! * **4.7 / 5.0** rating from **2000+** reviews in meetup.com * **Testimonials** (scroll to "photos" section to read testimonials) *"The best event I know on Meetup to connect to new friends."* *"First participation, an evening to remember!"* *"So far in 7 years this is the first time I see a really good organised event!"* *"Mega schön" "Had a blast!"* *"I was positively surprised. They organized everything so well; I met some interesting, friendly people. I highly recommend it"* *"Great! Everything excellent, super organized... lots of people. Great atmosphere"* *"I am really grateful for the warm atmosphere, inspiring moments"* . . *We encourage no/low alcohol consumption and only allow responsible behaviours.* . . . . . . . . ***Summary is above 👆. If you want more info then read below*** 👇 . . . . . . . . . . . . . **WHY we do this? Human fun and meaningful Connection** is what we all deeply desire and makes us truly happy and healthy (scientifically proven - read below)! . **WHAT is this event?** We are not a "party or drinks" meetup, nor we follow a "forced" process and agenda. Instead, we are a **Connection Community** inspired by Greek village cafes and Swiss Stammtisch — a welcoming environment where neighbours gathered as equals to share stories and build lasting friendships. We meet in a "**fixed-rhythm**" every 2 Fridays in a **homey** & **lovingly-hosted space** so you can connect with new and familiar faces. We provide **several optional activities** to help you **connect** with others—so you're free to **explore what resonates** with you! Together these activities create a unique **Connection** **Event!** . **Today's event** are: * **🥳new comer area** (never was easier to spark a conversation, with ice-breakers, optional for first time attendees) * **🤣fun social games** (like "cards against humanity" and more - read game names below) * **🧘mindful games** (no small talk, connect deeper, from [The School of Life](https://www.theschooloflife.com/shop/?_product_type=games-card-sets) \- read game names below\) * **👯 20:00 - 20:30 Speed-friending** (guaranteed process to meet spark new fun discussions and meet new people - with moderator) * **🙀 20:40 - 21:10** **New** **Surprise Connection Activity** (in separate room) * 🏭 beautiful **homey** industrial location in downtown ZH * 🇩🇪**German-speaking** area (falls du nur Deutsch sprechen möchtest) * **🏠1 private room** (if you want to talk or play games in quietness) * 👬 or simply **hang-out** and **meet new & old friends** **without** a process ❤️ *Note: we **reserved 100%** of the space so **everyone** will be from our community!* . . . **Q&A:** * **Where** **idea comes from**? Our events are inspired by the Swiss Stammtisch & Greek village concept of "[Καφενείο](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kafenio)" (coffeeshops), once vibrant [community hubs](https://www.google.com/search?sca_esv=569660528&sxsrf=AM9HkKlXnclaLfgcockKtdr9qHdmD5jaGw:1696060562834&q=greek+%5D(https://www.google.com/search?sca_esv=569660528&sxsrf=AM9HkKlXnclaLfgcockKtdr9qHdmD5jaGw:1696060562834&q=greek+)%CE%BA%CE%B1%CF%86%CE%B5%CE%BD%CE%B5%CE%B9%CE%BF&source=lnms&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwi52fX67dGBAxXnlf0HHZNiBHUQ0pQJegQICRAB&biw=1460&bih=913&dpr=2&udm=2) where people gathered daily to socialise, play games, and enjoy snacks and drinks. I, Christos, have fond childhood memories visiting them with my grandfather. Though this tradition is fading in Greece, I’m passionate about reviving it with a modern twist. Hope you enjoy it! ❤️ * **Co-host?** and support this event? Then please contact Christos * **Weather?** Event takes place rain or shine, with indoors rooms and outdoors area that is ultra rain-protected * **Coming late?** no problem, we got many people until closing at 00:00 so come whenever! * **Coming solo?** guess what, again no problem! 95%+ of people come solo - its the perfect event to come solo! * **Too many attendees?** no problem, we got the space! Also as per the "what" above: you define what makes the event meaningful for you! Furthermore, the co-organisers have one goal: to say hi and introduce you to the event and people (if you want to please ask)! Finally remember: you dont have to talk to everyone, focus in a few people! Less is more! 😃 If you dont know where to start look for a good smile or an activity more matching to you. From there keep on trying people and activities.. * **Why so many options above for connection?** We always have: a first-timer area, Fun social games, Mindful games, ice-breaker questions or simply just talk freely to anyone. Often we add: Speed-friending and a Music jam. We believe **you are unique** and each of us prefers different ways of connection. Also we want to provide an opportunity for everyone to try something new * **Easy and Safe:** We have the whole location reserved for us so its safe to open up and meet new friends (unlike bars in Zürich where people find it strange if strangers talk to them). Christos and volunteers will also help with connection. Read more info below. * **Christos** (see [PHOTO](https://photos.app.goo.gl/pdtVaVGCyDEJ28uE8)) and our co-organisers will be wearing name budges and will aim to **welcome** **everyone.** * more info via our **[LINKS](http://linktr.ee/connectionspace)** * **Who** is it for? **Everyone is welcome**! Wir wollen gerne mehr **Schweizer/innen** dabei haben! Alle sind willkommen und die meisten können Deutsch sprechen. Not an expat event. **Everyone welcome**! * Yes YOU are **good** & **courageous** for looking for new fun connections! * 95% of people come **solo** \- you can too❤️ * Everyone is in same situation and you ll be surprised how **friendly people** are ❤️ * Come **early** though **later** also ok as many people there **until 00:00** * **It works**! We heard of many new friendships, living together and even getting a new job * For **volunteering** for free please msg Christos 0768175380. We can provide free drinks for your service * **Mindful Connection Games:** from [The School of Life](https://www.theschooloflife.com/shop/?_product_type=games-card-sets) available: Confessions Game, The Friendship Game, Connection Game, The Loser Game, Games for grown-ups and three sets of "100 questions" (Conversation Toolkit & Careers & Relationships) * **Fun Social Games:** bring your own **board/card games** or choose from: Cards against humanity, Exploding Kittens, Codenames, Debatable, Sotally Tober, Taboo, Mafia, Uno, Monopoly and more. . **TIPS on HOW TO CONNECT:** * **Look out for a good smile/vibe** in a person/group of 2-3 people and say "Hi my name is xxx, can I join?". * **Try something different** (person, game, table, activity) often until you find **fun** **quality connection** * **Ask** **Support:** we understand going out to meet friends can be a stretch. We make this easy with a fun and safe event. Also you can ask for help from our clearly communicated (see photos of this event) "**People Connectors**" who can help you discreetly to connect with others * **Invest time**(not quickly just come by) as friendships are an investment * **Come back**: big turnaround, people come randomly at each event, so you never know who you ll meet . . ***You want even more info? We like you! 😄*** . . **ABOUT US IN DETAIL:** . **WHY Connection Space**? * ... we ❤️ **uniting people** while having **fun!** We make the world better by enabling **fun quality connections** & building **community!** * ... we truly believe **Human Connections** is what we truly **deeply crave** for and what we truly **need** so we can be **happy** and **healthy**! What we really need is all the things money cant buy. Human Connections making us happy is proven by data in [ANCIENT HISTORY](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kg_47J6sy3A), in [MODERN HISTORY](https://www.kiltrohealth.com/blog/blue-zones-social-connection-the-secret-to-longevity-and-well-being) and also scientifically proven by [HARVARD ](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8KkKuTCFvzI)in an 87 year old study. Yes this makes you [HEALTHY](https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/relationships-boost-survival/#:~:text=Overall%252C%2520social%2520support%2520increases%2520survival,%252Da%252Dday%2520smoking%2520habit) and is what you really need - the other things are not as important as society tells you. . **HOW does it work?** **Disconnect** your phone & Connect with people in a **free** and **super-fun Connection Event**! These recurring events create a "fixed" community without any specific reasons for connection (like interests, genders, age or countries). **Everyone is welcome**! The event is that **simple**😀. . * **WHAT is Connection Space?** Imagine a co-working space where everyone is with headphones, laptops, mostly being 'alone' all day ... or a cafe/restaurant/bar where pretty much all people talk to people they already know.. . The **"Connection Space"** is exactly the opposite of that; its a **fun** social environment outside family and work, a cultural exchange, where we **unite** and hangout with **new and old friends** as **one community**. . Thats it. . No to phones, laptops, zoom-calls, books No to a specific reason to get together (eg. only for specific hobbies, genders, age groups, languages etc) No to just talking to your friends Not a dating, not a party, not an expat-only meetup NO to division (political racial gender etc) . Yes to simple and real in-person connection with new and old friends YES TO FUN! We got many optional activities for you to try out Yes to feeling like home & come as you are Yes to unity, love and respect for one another Yes to eating, drinking and music Yes to everyone-is-welcome & always-free events YES to UNITY! Getting along with each other in spite of different opinions . Our events are **inspired** by the Greek village culture of "[Καφενείο](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kafenio)" (village coffeeshops) with photos [HERE](https://www.google.com/search?sca_esv=569660528&sxsrf=AM9HkKlXnclaLfgcockKtdr9qHdmD5jaGw:1696060562834&q=greek+%CE%BA%CE%B1%CF%86%CE%B5%CE%BD%CE%B5%CE%B9%CE%BF&tbm=isch&source=lnms&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwi52fX67dGBAxXnlf0HHZNiBHUQ0pQJegQICRAB&biw=1460&bih=913&dpr=2). When myself Christos was a kid, my granddad took me to these "[Καφενείο](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kafenio)". Every neighbourhood had one, and people met, without an exaggeration, on a daily-basis. It was the community center of the village. People met new and old friends, played games, socialised, ate snacks, drank coffee and ouzo. It was a very friendly, welcoming and homey environment. Unfortunately this concept is rapidly dying in Greece. As a kid I had extremely good memories of these coffeeshops, and for this reason I am passionate to revive and recreate this environment and also add a modern twist. Hope you enjoy it! . * **WHAT is NOT Connection Space? NOT** a drinks or party event (responsible drinking only, no shots, no free drinks). **NOT** a dating event. **NOT** foreigners-only, but everyone is welcome * **What KIND of event is this?** Its a mix of **social** and **cultural event** that build **community**. We have many people from so many different cultures socialising, we promote culture with events with Art exhibitions and Live Music and we also revive the social culture of the Greek traditional village coffeeshop (Καφενείο - read more above). . Looking forward to **fun quality Connections**! 🙂 ``` Disclaimer Participation in this event requires a signup. To ensure a smooth and safe experience, we kindly ask all participants to follow the instructions and announcements from the event organizers. While our team works hard to create an enjoyable and welcoming atmosphere, attendance is at your own risk. We want everyone to feel comfortable and respected. If you encounter any issues or uncomfortable situations during the event, please speak directly to a member of our team — we’re here to help. We reserve the right to exclude participants from the event if they do not adhere to basic standards of respectful interpersonal behavior. This decision is at the discretion of the responsible organizers. By signing up, you agree that any content captured during the event (including photos and videos) may be used on Connection Space, Social Circle’s and all of our partners social media channels and those of our partners. ```

When you join Stäfa’s Art Workshop, you will hear: What I have learned in 21 years of working as a line drawing artist. I will guide, encourage you to try something new. You will draw on high walls or sit at a table. My cosy apartment transformed into an artstudio welcomes you. We are a small group of 4 people. What will happen: connection, listening, exploration, discovery, amazement, joy, appreciation, openness to challenges and feeling moved. Whether you are an interested artist or a beginner looking to improve your skills, this event is the perfect opportunity to enhance your understanding of the significance and impact of lines on your life. Please bring your own curiosity, an old shirt, some comfortable slippers, readiness to get your fingers dirty and have fun. It's no race, no competition, no judging of what you create or others create. Location: 5 minutes from the lake, near the bus stop Kehlhof, in the picturesque vine village of Stäfa, 10 Minutes from Rapperswil, 20 minutes by train from Zürich Stadelhofen. I speak German, French, Dutch, Spanisch as well as English. The workshop will be led in the language of the majority of the attendees.

DE Wie aus der Zeit gefallen, prägt die Silberkugel seit über 50 Jahren unverändert ihren Standort. Inzwischen gibt es nur noch ein einziges Lokal dieser Art und zwar in Oerlikon. Wer es ein bisschen moderner mag, kann ins gleich nebenan gelegene Venus-Bistro, das gebenfalls eine eigene Geschichte hat. Wir treffen uns draussen vor der Silberkugel um 14 Uhr. So kann jede Person entscheiden, welches Lokal sie bevorzugt. *Wie immer, bring dein eigenes Skizzenbuch und Stifte mit. Es sind keine Vorkenntnisse nötig. Ich freue mich, schon bald mit dir zu zeichnen.* EN As if frozen in time, the Silberkugel has remained unchanged for over 50 years. There is now only one other restaurant of this kind, located in Oerlikon. Those who prefer something a little more modern can visit the Venus-Bistro next door, which has its own story to tell. We will meet outside the Silberkugel at 2 p.m. This way, everyone can decide which location they prefer. *As always, bring your own drawing supplies (sketchbooks, colours and pencils). No previous knowledge is required for this event. Just have fun to draw what you see and if you like, share your drawing(s) at the end with everybody. I’m looking forward to meeting you soon.*

**⚠️[>>Ticket needed (click here)<<](https://eventfrog.ch/en/p/eating-drinking/first-bite-club-fried-chicken-at-kana-7412129763890856489.html)** **First Bite Club is a monthly dining experience where we explore Zurich’s newest restaurants together.** Expect juicy, flavor-packed burgers (buffalo or ranch, you can’t go wrong 🍔) paired with wines that highlight every bite. Add in good company and easy conversation. ✨ **What’s on the menu:** * A cozy group dining experience at one of Zurich’s newest restaurants * Fried chicken burgers worth the hype 🍔 * Natural wines to sip and discover 🍷 * Fun icebreaker questions to keep the conversations flowing * A chance to connect with fellow foodies and curious locals 📍 **Where:** Kana, Zürich 🎟️ **Ticket includes:** A welcome drink Your next favorite restaurant — and maybe your next favorite people — are waiting. ​📸 Photos and short videos may be taken during the event. Let the host know if you prefer not to be in them. Tickets are non refundable. Want more events like this? Join our community! [https://chat.whatsapp.com/IN37htEEuH2Gdl73EQCqGV](https://chat.whatsapp.com/IN37htEEuH2Gdl73EQCqGV)

⚠️ **IMPORTANT: You must sign up here to attend**. The event is free. [https://forms.gle/1QXkm9QKy2kwySEUA](https://forms.gle/1QXkm9QKy2kwySEUA) We’ll host a small, cozy meetup with 6 to 8 people. Participants will be randomly selected, and we’ll make sure the group has a balanced gender mix. The exact location will be shared via WhatsApp the evening before the event. It’s a relaxed evening to meet new people, share stories, and enjoy good conversation. Come with an open mind and your best smile! \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- For general updates on all events, follow our WhatsApp news channel: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/Jt3QaW2ojoYEl3zIPZieQ6](https://chat.whatsapp.com/Jt3QaW2ojoYEl3zIPZieQ6)

This is a weekly beginner-friendly dance class focused on movement, fun and connection 🤍 Perfect for complete beginners, people who are new to Switzerland, or anyone who simply wants to move, dance and meet new people in a relaxed atmosphere. Each week we explore different dance styles (commercial, groove, basics, simple choreography) to keep things fresh and exciting – no pressure, no stress, no perfection needed. You don’t need any previous dance experience. Most people are beginners or just starting out. This is not a strict course – you can join whenever you want and come as often as it fits your schedule. Even if you can’t attend every week, you’re always welcome. 🕺 What to expect: • Easy, beginner-level movements • Good music & positive energy • A friendly, supportive group • A mix of dance + social vibes 💰 Price: 25 CHF per class (pay per session) 📍 Location: shared privately after registration Come as you are, move at your own pace and enjoy dancing together ✨

(English after the German text) **Achtsame Fotografie - Geschichten erzählen** *Treffpunkt: Auf der alten Bahnhofterrasse (siehe Eventfoto)* In diesem Mindful Photowalk werden wir der Limmat entlang wandern und zwei verlassene Orte besuchen. Die Gründe, warum diese verlassen sind, sind unterschiedlich. Beim alten Lettenbahnhof fahren heute keine Züge mehr, und die zweite Station ist die Lettenbadi, welche im Winter einsam und verlassen auf den nächsten Sommer wartet. Beide Plätze bieten eine tolle Gelegenheit für unseren achtsamen Fotowalk mit dem Ziel, mit wenigen, sehr bewusst geschossenen Fotos die Geschichte dieser Orte fotografisch zu dokumentieren. Du brauchst keine Vorkenntnisse, nur die Freude am Experimentieren, deine Kamera oder dein Smartphone und die Bereitschaft, dich auf das Neue einzulassen. Ich freue mich sehr darauf, mit euch bei dieser kleinen Stadtwanderung diese spannenden Orte zu erkunden. \-\-\- English \-\-\- **Mindful Photography Telling Stories** *Meeting point: On the old train station terrace (see event photo)* On this mindful photowalk, we will wander along the Limmat and visit two abandoned places. The reasons why these places are abandoned are different. No trains run at the old Letten station anymore, and the second location is the Lettenbadi, which waits quietly and deserted through the winter for the next summer. Both locations offer a great opportunity for our mindful photowalk, with the goal of documenting the story of these places through a few mindfully taken photos. You don't need any prior knowledge just a joy for experimenting, your camera or smartphone, and the willingness to embrace something new. I’m really looking forward to exploring these exciting places with you on this small city walk. \-\-\- PS \-\-\- (D) Dieser Spaziergang ist kostenlos, eine [Donation](https://tscharner.payrexx.com/pay?tid=861b78d0) zur Deckung der Unkosten ist sehr willkommen. (E) This walk is free, a [donation](https://tscharner.payrexx.com/pay?tid=861b78d0) to cover expenses is very much appreciated.

**before ice skating:** let's meet in Buchegg bus stop at 8:10. Then we continue to Dolder, here is the path: [von Wipkingen nach Fluntern | Wanderung | Komoot](https://www.komoot.com/de-de/tour/2696002482?share_token=aFSI7pDBykdywjMwEE3KGIQIK241gy3UitU92IGFLT9fDv5lOh&ref=wtd) here is how you can join the train station by train from Zürich: [Das Online-Portal der SBB für Fahrplan, Zug und ÖV](https://www.sbb.ch/de?stops=[{%22value%22:%228503000%22,%22type%22:%22ID%22,%22label%22:%22Z%C3%BCrich+HB%22},{%22value%22:%228591101%22,%22type%22:%22ID%22,%22label%22:%22Z%C3%BCrich,+Bucheggplatz%22}]&date=%222026-01-11%22&time=%2207:45%22&moment=%22DEPARTURE%22&selected_trip=2) **description:** Exceptionally you can ice skate for free. More information here: [Gratis aufs Glatteis | Stadt Zürich](https://www.stadt-zuerich.ch/de/stadtleben/sport-und-erholung/sport-und-badeanlagen/kunsteisbahnen/gratis-aufs-glatteis.html) Last year, there was a long queue, and the doors opened before the official start. Therefore, I am aiming to reach it for 9:30 am. **dedicated whatapp group** [WhatsApp-Gruppeneinladung](https://chat.whatsapp.com/J0roEUHt0ZMI3n3nHytmLW) **Registration:** To sign up, please select "Yes" in the WhatsApp community survey for this activity: [🌄 Switzerland Discovery Crew (Preferred Ages 18-35)🌄 | WhatsApp-Kanal](https://www.whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaoercY1XquRrJm58k3V) If the event will happen in more than 30 days, I haven't added the survey in the channel yet. (Because message in a WhatsApp channel can be read by a new member only 30 days before he joins. But you can already enter the corresponding WhatsApp group) If you are concerned about privacy, only the admin of a WhatsApp channel can see who has voted in a poll (unlike a WhatsApp group). Please sign up only when you are certain! You can also register through Meetup, as it helps build momentum; however, I rely only on the number of people who signed up through the WhatsApp survey.

RSVPs are BINDING, and close 0900 Hrs two days before. It costs approximately between CHF 18-25 per person (depending on number of people);You can pay by Twint or cash. Beginner are welcome in the 12:15 session. We understand some important things come up in the last minute. In such a case, please let us know in advance so others who are interested may join us. Thanks.

RSVPs are BINDING, and close 0900 Hrs two days before. It costs approximately between CHF 18-25 per person (depending on number of people);You can pay by Twint or cash. Beginner should sign up for the 12:15 session. We understand some important things come up in the last minute. In such a case, please let us know in advance so others who are interested may join us. Thanks.

[⚠️>>Ticket needed (click here)<<⚠️](https://eventfrog.ch/en/p/eating-drinking/digital-detox-cafe-7409652916942808291.html) **Unplug & Create: Digital Detox Café at Paint it Easy** Take a break from screens and reconnect with yourself and others at our Digital Detox event in Zürich’s most inviting creative space, Paint it Easy. We’ll kick off the evening with a relaxed atmosphere, setting the tone for a mindful and inspiring night. 📲 **Join our crafting WhatsApp group for updates:** [https://chat.whatsapp.com/JPIASNUJGwD23UUweSe0s3](https://chat.whatsapp.com/JPIASNUJGwD23UUweSe0s3) Choose your path for the evening (workshops are first come, first served): 💬 **Connection, Play, Learn** **Workshop:** Reducing your screen time **Deep Talk with Question Cards:** Dive into meaningful conversations and connect with fellow participants on a deeper level. **Boardgames:** Just for fun or to meet new people. 🎨 **Creative Activities:** * **Drawing** (included) * **Canvas Painting** (CHF 10/hour + canvas, e.g., 30x40 cm: CHF 9) * **Pottery Painting** (CHF 20–45 per piece) * **Jewellery Making with Beads** (CHF 10/hour + materials, avg. CHF 20–30) * **Linocut Printmaking** (CHF 25–35 per piece) 📍 **Location:** Paint it Easy, Zürich 💰 **Early Bird Ticket:** CHF 15 (standard CHF 18) **Includes :** Welcome drink\*, drawing material, notebook, games, workshop **Doesn't include** : optional creative activity fees (depending on your choice) *\*Warm drink, homemade iced tea, or lemonade* No experience needed—just bring your curiosity and an open mind! Whether you're painting, reflecting, or connecting, this is your space to recharge, express, and enjoy. Please note that pictures might be taken and used, if you don't want to be on them please let the host know. Tickets are not refundable. #digitaldetox **Want more events like this? Join our newsletter:** https://chat.whatsapp.com/IN37htEEuH2Gdl73EQCqGV

## Learn Infrastructure-as-Code (the FUN Way) — Through Minecraft 🎮☁️ **Joint Meetup: Azure CBUS × Columbus HashiCorp User Group** What if learning Terraform and Infrastructure-as-Code didn’t feel like a whitepaper… but more like a game? Join us for a joint Azure CBUS and Columbus HashiCorp User Group meetup where **Mark Tinderholt** \(Principal Architect\, Microsoft Azure \| HashiCorp Ambassador \| “The Azure Terraformer”\) shows how **Minecraft** can be used as a surprisingly powerful way to understand real-world Infrastructure-as-Code concepts. In this session, Mark will demonstrate how Terraform and Azure can be used to provision, configure, and manage Minecraft servers—while teaching the same patterns you’d use for production cloud infrastructure. ### What we’ll cover * Infrastructure-as-Code fundamentals using **Terraform** * Provisioning real infrastructure on **Azure** * Applying **IaC best practices** (immutability, repeatability, versioning) * How playful environments like Minecraft make complex concepts *click* * Why learning through experimentation beats click-ops every time ### Who should attend * Developers, platform engineers, and cloud engineers * Terraform users (new or experienced) * Anyone curious about Infrastructure-as-Code but tired of boring examples * Minecraft fans who want to see it used in a totally unexpected way No prior Minecraft experience required—just curiosity and a willingness to learn infrastructure the fun way. Come for the blocks, stay for the Terraform. 🧱➡️📐 Want to be a speaker? submit your talk to our Call for Presenters!!! https://sessionize.com/azure-cbus-2026/

Wild Ones: Annual Native Seed Swap January 10, 2026 @ 10:00 am - 11:00 am Join Wild Ones Columbus for their annual native seeds swap. If you have native seeds to share, please label them with the Latin name and common name. The seeds don’t need to be removed from the seed head if you aren’t sure how to do it, but remove as much stem as possible. Bringing seeds is not required. Bring bags or envelopes to store seeds. Inniswood Metro Gardens 940 S. Hempstead Rd. Westerville, OH 43081 Phone (614)895-6216 This event will be held in the Greenhouse/Multipurpose Building located near the east end of the parking lot. Click here to see the Inniswood map. If you have native seeds to share, label each species with this information: * Botanical Name * Common Name Species we will accept: * Species native to our ecoregion (8.2.4) - Best * Species native to Ohio and surrounding states - Good * Straight species only - no cultivars. The seeds don’t need to be removed from the seed head if you aren’t sure how to do it, but don’t leave much stem on the seed heads. Please email the list of species to Mary May so we can prepare information for attendees. You can bring the seeds on the day of the swap, or we can arrange to have them picked up beforehand - just let her know in the email. If you don’t have any seeds to bring, no worries. If you are new to native plants or didn't have time to collect seeds, there are ALWAYS plenty from those that do bring them! We love to see "newbies" at our seed exchange! Also, remember to bring something to put seeds in such as envelopes, paper bags or containers.

**History** [Blacklick Woods Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/blacklick-woods/), established in 1949, holds the distinction of being the first Columbus Metro Park. Its creation stemmed from a post-World War II push to preserve natural areas amid rapid suburban growth. The land, originally farmland and woodlots along Blacklick Creek, was acquired by the Columbus Metropolitan Park Board through donations and purchases. Early efforts focused on basic trail development and reforestation to combat erosion. The park's name derives from the creek, which early settlers called "Black Lick" due to its dark, mineral-rich waters. By the 1950s, it served as a model for the expanding Metro Parks system. In the 1960s, Blacklick Woods expanded significantly with additional land acquisitions, reaching over 600 acres. A golf course was added in 1964, one of the first public courses in the region, designed to generate revenue for park maintenance. Native American artifacts, including arrowheads from the Adena culture, were discovered during construction, highlighting the area's prehistoric use as hunting grounds. The park introduced interpretive programs to educate visitors on local ecology and history. Flood control measures along the creek became a priority after heavy rains caused damage. These developments solidified its role as a recreational hub. The 1970s and 1980s brought environmental awareness, leading to habitat restoration projects at Blacklick Woods. Invasive species were removed, and native wildflowers were planted in the meadows. A nature center opened in 1976, featuring exhibits on wetlands and forests. The park's slate-covered bridge, a remnant of 19th-century infrastructure, was preserved as a historic feature. Birdwatching gained popularity with the addition of observation decks. Community volunteers played a key role in trail maintenance and cleanups. During the 1990s, Blacklick Woods underwent major upgrades, including paved multi-use trails for biking and hiking. The Walter A. Tucker Nature Preserve, a 53-acre old-growth forest within the park, was dedicated in 1995 to protect rare beech-maple woodlands. Educational partnerships with local schools introduced field trips on topics like stream ecology. The golf course was renovated to improve playability while minimizing environmental impact. Annual events, such as the fall festival, drew thousands to celebrate the park's natural beauty. These enhancements balanced recreation with conservation. In the 21st century, Blacklick Woods has adapted to increasing visitation with sustainable practices. Solar panels were installed at facilities in the 2010s to reduce energy costs. The park now spans 643 acres, offering diverse habitats from wetlands to uplands. Recent initiatives include pollinator gardens and prescribed burns to maintain prairie areas. It remains a flagship for the Metro Parks, inspiring similar preservations system-wide. Ongoing archaeological surveys continue to uncover traces of early inhabitants. **Map of the Park** Here is a [map of Blacklick Woods](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/BLK-map-May-2025-with-extended-greenway_1980px.jpg). **Summary** For this event, we will hike about 4.5 miles by doing a couple loops of the Buttonbush, Tucker, Maple Loop, and Beech trails. Blacklick Woods is a very nice park, but it is generally flat and not strenuous, so this will be one of the easier hikes that we do. **Where We'll Meet** Drive all the way to the back of the park to the parking lot that is nearest the Nature Center. There are restrooms here next to the Canopy Walk. We'll meet near these restrooms. Speaking of the [Canopy Walk](https://www.metroparks.net/blog/canopy-walk-is-your-gateway-to-the-sky/), it's not officially part of the event this time. However, if interested people want to freelance and check it out after the hike (before heading to the brewery), that's okay. **After the Hike** After we're done with the trails, we'll head to [Prost Beer & Wine Café](https://prostcafe.com/) for drinks and [food](https://prostcafe.com/reynoldsburg-prost-beer-and-wine-cafe-food-menu). The actual address of the brewery is [7354 E Main St, Reynoldsburg, OH 43068](https://www.google.com/maps/place/7354+E+Main+St,+Reynoldsburg,+OH+43068/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x8838648cfb8d2dbb:0x545274bab130e9bb?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111), and we should be there by 5:00 if you just want to do that and skip the hike.

Join us for a casual chat over coffee & tea at Grandview Grind! Come out and meet some new people, enjoy your favorite drink, and make some new friends!